M A I N   N E W S

Rahul set to play a bigger role in Cong
Likely to be designated No 2 in party
Anita Katyal
Tribune News Service

The comprehensive Cabinet reshuffle undertaken yesterday is an indication that a similar exercise is being contemplated for the party. Drastic changes in the UPA government and the Congress have become imperative in view of the continuing slide in their popularity ratings. There is a growing realisation that the Congress must put a fresh team in place if it is to energise its demoralised party cadres for the crucial polls ahead. .

More defined role It appears to be a toss-up between Working President, Secretary General or General Secretary in charge of organisation, a post which will allow him the flexibility to look into the organisational affairs of all states. Congress insiders maintain the designation is not important. What is critical that Rahul be given a more defined role in the party.

All eyes are on the role which Nehru-Gandhi scion Rahul Gandhi will play in the party. Having confined himself to the revamp of Youth Congress and NSUI, Rahul Gandhi is set to play a bigger role in the Congress organisation. It is clear that young Gandhi will be formally designated No two in the party though his title remains a matter of speculation.

It appears to be a toss-up between Working President, Secretary General or General Secretary in charge of organisation, a post which will allow him the flexibility to look into the organisational affairs of all states. Congress insiders maintain the designation is not important. What is critical that Rahul be given a more defined role in the party.

Rahul had a major say in the recast of the Cabinet and the promotion of Jyotiraditya Scindia, Sachin Pilot and Ajay Maken are being seen as a clear sign of his greater involvement in party matters. As in the case of the government, the focus in the party is also expected to be on entrusting key responsibilities to younger leaders to put in place a “Rahul team.”

Speaking to media persons after the Cabinet reshuffle on Sunday, Sonia Gandhi remarked that the organisational changes would be rolled out shortly.

The tone for the organisational shake-up was set last week with the resignation of six ministers, including Ambika Soni, who will now be assigned an important role in the party. Considered a quintessential organisation person, Soni had earlier been political secretary to Congress President as well as the AICC general secretary in-charge of several states and the media department. Having been asked to give up her ministry, it is expected the party will utilise her experience in a key position.